Black-breasted Kite
NameBlack-breasted Kite
Common NameBlack-breasted Kite
Scientific NameHamirostra melanosternon
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)155
Length (cm)56
Weight (g)1050
Plumage DetailsAdults have a dark brown to black body, with rufous or chestnut coloration on the nape, shoulders, and underparts. The head is paler, often streaked, and the flight feathers are dark. Juveniles are generally paler with more extensive rufous markings.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a harsh, yelping or barking call, often given in flight or when disturbed.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to northern and central Australia, inhabiting tropical and subtropical woodlands, savannas, and arid scrublands, often near watercourses.
Identifying Featuresdark overall plumage with rufous markings, pale streaked head, broad, rounded wings, short tail, distinctive egg-breaking behavior
Description
The Black-breasted Kite is a large, powerful raptor known for its distinctive dark plumage and broad wings. It is unique among raptors for its habit of dropping stones onto large eggs to break them open. This species typically soars high over its habitat, searching for prey.
